"While the budget delivered a disappointing outcome for hospitals CHA acknowledges the Government's initiatives on mental health, drug and alcohol issues, asthma and diabetes," said Francis Sullivan. "And while resources have been allocated to nursing requirements for GPs, no funds have been committed to enhancing nursing resources for the country's public hospitals."

Mr Sullivan regretted that the indexation of GP services will not forestall the slide in bulk billing, placing further financial pressure on Australia's most needy.

"We are disappointed there were no substantial commitments to other areas of health such as palliative care, family medicine and services for children," he said.